Fresh from the gruelling Japanese Grand Prix, Johann Zarco confidently eyes up the second back-to-back race at the legendary Phillip Island circuit. The high-flying rookie had a strong weekend in Japan, where he clinched his second pole position of the year. Last winter, he produced some impressive performances at the Australian track during the testing, and as a result, he firmly targets a top-tier finish this Sunday.
Meanwhile, local hero Broc Parkes will fill in for the recovering Jonas Folger, who is undertaking medical tests in Germany. Parkes, who has achieved many successes and competed in the MotoGP World Championship in 2014, aims to build up his confidence over the weekend and then seal a point scoring finish in front of his fans.
Broc Parkes
“Of course, I would like to thank the Monster Yamaha Tech3 team for giving me the amazing opportunity to race at my home Grand Prix in front of all of my supporters, fans and family. I am really looking forward to getting on the Yamaha YZR-M1 at Phillip Island and giving it my all!”
Hervé Poncharal
Monster Yamaha Tech3 – Team Manager
“It’s now time for the Australian Grand Prix which will be another interesting round for the whole Monster Yamaha Tech3 Team. After the great qualifying performance and start of the race, by Johann Zarco, I expect another very strong showing. Hopefully, the weather will be dry this time and we know that the Yamaha YZR- M1 is a bike that is always fast at Phillip Island. Therefore, everyone is looking forward to the weekend with Johann. Due to the unfortunate illness of Jonas Folger, we will have another new rider joining Tech3 at this round. He is a local boy from Australia and his name is Broc Parkes, who is already a Yamaha and Monster Energy sponsored rider. He has previously tested the M1 on Michelin tyres at this track so everything will not be completely new for him. We are more than happy to welcome Broc and to give him the chance to show his true potential. Clearly, an Australian rider will bring more media attention to the team and that is something that is going to be exciting for us. Phillip Island is always a very special circuit that many MotoGP riders regard as the best track in the world. It’s just incredible with amazing scenery and there are also a lot of enthusiastic fans here in Australia. So let’s start on Friday and hopefully, the weather will be kind to us.”
Johann Zarco
Championship: 6th – Points: 125